Learning How To Be Alone

As humans, we are social creatures who thrive off community and social contact with others. Many of us build our sense of self based on the people, experiences, and world around us. Regardless of the relationships you have in your life, the most important relationship is the one you have with yourself.

Sometimes life can get hectic and we can forget to press pause and simply spend time with ourselves. The truth is, one of the hardest parts of being an adult is learning how to truly enjoy the time you spend alone with yourself. It can be scary when you are faced with just being present with yourself, but after you take some time to really check in emotionally and mentally, you will realize that being alone is the only time you can truly connect with you.

Tips for learning how to be alone:

Understand you are good enough, even all by yourself.

Some of us hate the idea of spending time alone because as much as we would like to deny it, we tend to get our sense of validation from the people around us. When building a relationship with yourself, remind yourself that you are good enough and don’t need approval from anyone else. You are choosing to spend alone time with yourself because you deserve it.

Appreciate the silence around you

The world is such a hectic and busy place. It’s rare to experience total and complete silence, especially when we are constantly around others. Instead of looking at the silence when you’re alone as a bad thing, close your eyes and take in the stillness and calm. Leave all your worries behind!

Avoid mindless activities

This means that not every time you are alone should be filled with social media, tv, or computer time. When you are alone there is so much you can learn about yourself, the life you want to live, and what you want from yourself and others. Set aside time to indulge in other activities like meditating, painting, or reading a book.

Let the creativity flow

The best part about being alone with yourself is being able to truly tap into your creative side and have the freedom to express it, too. When you are alone you can completely lose yourself in your art with no distractions. Even if you aren’t a natural-born artist, finding creative outlets is good for the soul.

Avoid comparing yourself to other people

At one time or another, we have all compared ourselves to our friends, family members, or anyone around us that seems like they may have it a little more together than we do. Everyone is fighting their own battles, so there is no need to compare yourself to others. You’ll never be able to be anyone else, but you’re the only one who can be you. As individuals we all have something special to offer, so don’t sell yourself short by comparing yourself.

Make plans for the future

While you are alone and have the time to think about what you really want, make plans for the future! Whether that’s taking a trip, visiting a friend, or experiencing something new, planning for the future gives your life purpose. Make a list of goals you want to achieve and places you want to visit to get you started.

Organize your home space

Creating a home space that you absolutely love is crucial for spending time alone with yourself. When you live alone it can be easy to feel like everything is the same all the time, but re-arranging furniture and organizing your space can be an easy way of making things feel fresh and new.

Volunteer for a cause that is important to you

Spending time with yourself doesn’t mean you have to be totally alone. Spend your time alone giving back to the community or a cause that you believe in.

Use the alone time for physical activities

Exercise releases endorphins, which in turn gives us happy vibes. Do your body and mind a favor and spend your time alone moving your body. You don’t have to go crazy on the zoom workouts, but moving your body for at least 30 minutes a day can make all the difference.

Spend time in nature

There is little in this world that spending time in nature cannot heal. Breathing in fresh air and taking in the natural wonders of the world can really put life into perspective. Take a walk around the neighborhood, go to the beach, or take a hike – anything to get immersed in the nature around you.